On Sunday, our family and friends "Walked with Chloe" at the Step Up and Walk for Down syndrome fundraising event at Lake Monger. I was so touched by the amazing turn out of loved ones who came to walk with us. Thank you all so much for the love and support you have shown our family. Sorry Bec, this is one of the photos you took. (I chose it because I thought I looked pretty good - … [Read more...]
Do you believe in magic?
I went out last night to do a bit of shopping and I also made a long overdue visit to the hairdressers. I have to say that it was absolute heaven to have some ME time. I haven't been alone in weeks and I really needed to just get away and be on my own for a few hours. The Myer Christmas department is fully decked out and I spent more time than I realised wandering through the beautifully … [Read more...]
When Chloe’s broken heart was mended Part 2: Recovery
If you missed part 1 of Chloe's heart story, you can find it here: PART 1: SURGERY Intensive Care I had to catch my breath when I saw little Chloe all wired up on that huge bed. She was hardly recognisable with all those tubes and wires everywhere and the ventilator on her face didn't help either. To give her body a complete rest, the ventilator did all her breathing for her while she … [Read more...]
When Chloe’s broken heart was mended Part 1: Surgery
With Chloe's recent first birthday behind us, I have spent many moments lately thinking about her heart surgery. Wow. Heart surgery. A time in my life that was such a blur and if it weren't for the scars on Chloe's chest and tummy, I probably wouldn't even believe it actually happened. I am so pleased to say that the wonderful surgeon did an amazing job and her heart is working 'normally' … [Read more...]
She’s One
This day last year, I sat for hours in the hospital, waiting for my name to be called so I could finally meet my baby. I was so afraid of what was about to happen. I was scared of her heart condition and the surgery she would need to have. I was scared of Down syndrome. And scared of this new, unknown life that was being forced on me. "She will be blue and floppy" … [Read more...]
Lellow
Emma turned 5 this week. Wow. Happy Birthday Emma!It's so cliched to say but really, it only feels like yesterday when I saw her for the very first time. When my life changed forever and I became this new person now known as Mum. The past five years have been so rewarding to say the least. I have watched Emma learn and grow and sometimes when I … [Read more...]
Milestones
Last week, Andrew and I had a "Goal Setting" meeting with Chloe's Early Intervention team. It was really reassuring and exciting to remember where Chloe was at 6 months ago when we started these sessions and to take note of what she has accomplished. Six months ago, Chloe was barely rolling over and today, she is rolling all over the place and so much more!She is … [Read more...]
Birthday party planning
It's birthday season again in our household with Andrew, Emma and Chloe all celebrating their special days over the next couple of months.Emma's birthday is all sorted - we are not doing anything over the top this year, just a family afternoon tea which she will share with Andrew and a small party with her closest friends at the end of the month.Chloe's birthday is a bit more complicated … [Read more...]
Mothers Group
Nearly five years ago, our Mother's Group first met at the local Kindy for fortnightly "New Parent" information sessions. We balanced awkwardly on the ridiculously tiny chairs, trying not to move too suddenly in fear of injuring stitches that for some, were still tender. We were wide eyed from lack of sleep and also from the overwhelm of becoming a parent for the first time. I wish someone had … [Read more...]
Chicken Chimichangas
I first heard the word Chimichanga a few years ago on a plane to New Zealand while watching an episode of Two and a Half Men. Strangely enough, during our trip, Andrew and I kept hearing it and it soon became a running joke. I am not a fan of Mexican food but I like the word Chimichanga. It's so cool I am going to say it again. Chimichanga. Chicken Chimichanga. … [Read more...]